After months on the road we’re finally back on Clearlake! Come along as we explore the lake, build patterns, and catch fish! Matt utilizes a buzzbait, frog, and toad to catch a fish in the grass on a hot Summer day. Many anglers avoid fishing in the heat but if you know where to look there are big fish to be caught!
Catching fish consistently in Summer requires an understanding of how and why they position. Shallow water bass love to be close to cover. A consistent food source is also key. In most lakes, if you can find baitfish and grass in the same area, you’re around bass. This morning Matt hit the water at first light. He already knew where to find grass but the baitfish remained a mystery. By getting out early he was able to quickly locate active birds searching for a meal.
It took time to get the first bite but the bird activity confirmed the presence of baitfish and ultimately the presence of bass. Whenever you’re on the water pay close attention to nature, it’s clues can really shorten your search time. Once Matt located fish he used a combination of baits to get consistent bites from bass that were positioned to ambush prey as it passed by the grass beds.
Below is a breakdown of the baits and equipment Matt used to catch his fish. We’ve included color recommendations for the various baits, the exact combos Matt was fishing with, and even a budget-minded alternative. The links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.
The Baits…
-Skirtless Buzzbait- Dirty Jigs Canterbury Pro Buzz 1/2 oz (Blue Glimmer): http://bit.ly/2cWI6if
Trailer- River2Sea D Walker Swimbait 120 (PB Red): http://bit.ly/2NwqBmz
-4 Blade Buzzbait- D&M Easy Roller Buzz (Night Stalker): https://bit.ly/2SCqcmj
-Frog- River2Sea Bully Wa 2: http://bit.ly/2axyR2a
Colors: Dirty White, Ghost, Little Allen, TW Gill
-Big Bite Baits Tour Toad: http://bit.ly/2NtAghc
Colors: Hematoma, Pearl Shine
Hook- Owner 6/0 Twist Lock Open Gap: http://bit.ly/2cYZ3rM
Matt’s Buzzbait Combo…
Rod- Dobyns Xtasy 7’5″ 5 Power (Heavy): http://bit.ly/36fIHCg
Reel- Shimano Curado 150 DC XG: http://bit.ly/2yHtsp4
Line- Power Pro Maxcuatro 65 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2clBRiQ
Matt’s Frog Combo…
Rod- Shimano Expride 7’3″ Extra Heavy: http://bit.ly/2nTq9FL
Reel- Shimano Curado 200K HG: http://bit.ly/2tHewEh
Line- Power Pro Maxcuatro 65 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2clBRiQ
Budget Buzzbait Combo…
Rod- Shimano Intenza 7’2″ Medium Heavy: http://bit.ly/2QADLTq
Reel- Shimano SLX DC XG: http://bit.ly/2LWzw2Q
Line- Power Pro 50 lb Braided Line: http://bit.ly/2aFg46b
Budget Frog Combo…
Rod- Dobyns Fury 736 (7’3″ Mag Heavy): http://bit.ly/2bGvlVV
Reel- Shimano SLX DC XG: http://bit.ly/2LWzw2Q
Line- Power Pro 65 lb Braided Line: http://bit.ly/2aFg46b
NEW Tactical Bassin Apparel…
TacticalBassin Reaper Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2TwBWs7
TacticalBassin Shadow Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2FVD9Rs
TacticalBassin Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/2TvFMBD
TacticalBassin Hooded Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/38cVi9G
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What we wear…
Sun Mask: http://bit.ly/2JcA8xi
Sun Shirt w/ Hood: http://bit.ly/38cVi9G
Light Fishing Pants: http://bit.ly/2foDx10
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Equipment We Recommend…
Minn Kota Ultrex Trolling Motor: http://bit.ly/2vFQypW
Humminbird Solix 15 Electronics: http://bit.ly/2Hazsej
Minn Kota Talons: http://bit.ly/2F0QBSP
Hot Foot Throttle Control: http://bit.ly/2ob4kgO
Loc-R-Bar Boat Security: http://bit.ly/2CMF1NP
Favorite Storage Box: http://bit.ly/2fvjcFB
Favorite Pliers: http://bit.ly/2tfxFvw
Favorite Split Ring Pliers: http://bit.ly/2fT4Qw0
Favorite Wire Cutters: http://bit.ly/2soB34k
Favorite life jacket: http://bit.ly/2odXXIP
Favorite sunglasses: http://bit.ly/2glE3eN
Hero8 Camera: http://bit.ly/37hVTX4
ElectroSamson Scale: http://bit.ly/2f7QgQ9
Frabill Net: http://bit.ly/2FNdnQr
Lure Retriever: http://bit.ly/2TLTJc6
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If you plan to do any shopping, using our links before doing your shopping at Tackle Warehouse is the single greatest way to support us! You won’t be able to even see a difference but they’ll know you’re one of us!
#bassfishing #frogfishing #topwater